In simple words: This code is used when a patient has a family history of illnesses or disabilities that might affect their health. It adds details to the patient's health record.

This code is used to document a patient's family history of certain disabilities and chronic diseases that may lead to disability.It's a supplementary code used to provide additional information about the patient's health status, often in conjunction with codes for the patient's current condition(s).

Example 1: A patient presents for a routine checkup.During the family history review, it is revealed that the patient's mother suffered from type 1 diabetes and the patient's uncle had a history of heart disease.Code Z82 would be used in addition to any other codes for the patient's current conditions., A pregnant woman undergoes genetic counseling, and her family history reveals several instances of cystic fibrosis. The counselor uses code Z82 along with other relevant codes to document the family history and associated risks., A patient consults a genetic specialist due to concerns about a family history of various neurological disorders. The consultation notes would include code Z82 to document the hereditary factors involved in the consultation.

Detailed family history should be documented. This should include the specific conditions, affected relatives (relationship to the patient, age of onset, etc.), and whether the conditions resulted in disability.

** This code is not used for billing purposes alone; it provides crucial information for risk assessment and preventive care. It should be used in conjunction with other codes accurately reflecting the patient's current diagnosis and reason for visit.Note that the specificity of family history documentation is crucial for accurate coding.The more detailed the recorded family history, the better the clinician can provide risk-based care.This increases the importance of clear and detailed documentation.